Nick Colleluori Classic: Hofstra’s Johnston (Ridley) feels at home while playing for HEADstrong’s cause

In so many ways, Tyler Johnston felt right at home today at Ridley High as a first-year member of the Hofstra University men’s lacrosse team.

Tyler Johnston

Here he was, playing for the HEADstrong Foundation’s fight to cure blood cancer at the 5th annual Nick Colleluori Classic as a member of Pride – on the very field where he played high school lacrosse and earned a spot on the HEADstrong team of Champions.

Johnston was a standout at Ridley High who earned All-American honors twice and led the Green Raiders to the 2008 Central League championship. He also played for Team HEADstrong in club lacrosse and himself was a volunteer for the Nick Colleluori Classic, which honors the Ridley alum who died of blood cancer five years ago.

Johnston signed with Georgetown, but did not play last year as a freshman and decided to transfer to Hofstra. Of course, that’s where Nick Colleluori played before being diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma six years ago.

Johnston said playing at the Classic for Hofstra and for Nick’s legacy was an honor.

“The impact of the tournament at Hofstra and for HEADstrong is amazing,” he said. “The Foundation is growing every year.

“Already there is a family staying at ‘Nick’s House.’ The Colleluori family has a vision. I can’t wait to see what they do for the future.”

Johnston, a midfielder/attackman, said he has adjusted well to playing for Hofstra and coach Seth Tierney.

“After talking to coach Tierney, it was the right move for me,” Johnston said., “I am so happy to be here.

“It is a great opportunity and the guys are great, coach Tierney is great and they have welcomed me here. It’s been easy to adapt to a new program and I am really enjoying myself.”